News

Williams (shoulder) will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the league year but hopes to return to the Dolphins in 2018, Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis: The Dolphins are the only team Williams has ever known since signing as an undrafted free agent in 2014 and then re-signing on a one-year contract last offseason. While he was never more than a change-of-pace runner during his first three years, Miami seemingly signaled its faith in Williams' potential when it traded away then-starting running back Jay Ajayi to the Eagles last October. The Oklahoma product fared well in Ajayi's absence, averaging 4.4 yards per carry while splitting the workload…read more

Published: Fri, Jan 5 at 10:41am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (shoulder) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Bills.

Analysis: With Williams out, Kenyan Drake -- who was on the field for 95 percent of the Dolphins' snaps on offense in Week 16 - will head the Miami backfield in the team's regular-season finale, with Senorise Perry and De'Veon Smith on hand to work in reserve roles.

Published: Sun, Dec 31 at 12:13pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (shoulder) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Bills, Adam H. Beasley of the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis: In Williams' likely absence, Kenyan Drake -- who was on the field for 95 percent of the Dolphins' snaps on offense in Week 16 -- is once again in line to head the Miami backfield in the team's season finale, with Senorise Perry and De'Veon Smith in reserve.

Published: Fri, Dec 29 at 10:52am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (shoulder) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Analysis: If Williams is able to return for Sunday's season finale against the Dolphins, which is not a lock, he'd presumably work in a complementary role behind Kenyan Drake.

Published: Wed, Dec 27 at 3:35pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (shoulder) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Chiefs.

Analysis: In Williams' continued absence, Kenyan Drake will once again head the Miami backfield in Week 16, with Senorise Perry and De'Veon Smith on hand to work in reserve roles.

Published: Sun, Dec 24 at 8:53am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (shoulder) is doubtful for Sunday's game against the Chiefs, Adam H. Beasley of the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis: Williams' absence of late has led to Kenyan Drake seeing added work in the Miami backfield, an assignment that Drake has handled well. Assuming Williams is inactive Sunday, Senorise Perry and De'Veon Smith will be on hand to back up Drake.

Published: Fri, Dec 22 at 11:04am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Analysis: While it's encouraging that Williams has been able to practice this week, Joe Schad of the Palm Beach Post relays via coach Adam Gase that at this stage there are still some practice activities that make Williams' shoulder feel uncomfortable. We'll circle back on the running back's status Friday, but if Williams is able to suit up Sunday against the Chiefs, he'd provide the Dolphins with a welcome opportunity to spell Kenyan Drake more than they were able to while Williams was sidelined.

Published: Thu, Dec 21 at 2:06pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Analysis: Williams has missed the Dolphins' past three games, but he could be nearing a return to game action. If he does suit up Sunday against the Chiefs, we doubt that he'd supplant Kenyan Drake as the team's lead back in Week 16. Drake was effective in Williams' absence, so a complementary role presumably awaits Williams if he is in fact cleared to play this weekend.

Published: Wed, Dec 20 at 1:53pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

The Dolphins ruled out Williams (shoulder) for Sunday's game in Buffalo, Joe Schad of The Palm Beach Post reports.

Analysis: After a limited showing at Thursday's practice, Williams seemed to test out the state of his left shoulder, but ultimately a lack of activity Friday and a doubtful designation for Week 15 sealed his fate. Out of the lineup for a third consecutive game, he'll yield the backfield to Kenyan Drake, who has reeled off 334 yards from scrimmage and one touchdown the last two contests.

Published: Sat, Dec 16 at 1:52pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (shoulder) is doubtful for Sunday's game against the Bills, James Walker of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Williams created some optimism about a potential return this week by returning to practice on a limited basis Thursday. However, he was unable to build on that, as he was a non-participant in Friday's session, according to Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald, making it likely that Williams will miss his third consecutive game due to the dislocated left shoulder. Assuming Williams sits out, Kenyan Drake will once again handle the bulk of the touches out of the Dolphins' backfield. Considering…read more

Published: Fri, Dec 15 at 12:30pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (shoulder) returned to a limited practice Thursday.

Analysis: Per Chris Perkins of the Sun-Sentinel, if Williams is able to return to action Sunday against the Bills following a two-game absence, he could help ease the workload of Kenyan Drake, who has logged 56 touches over Miami's past two games. Given that Drake racked up 234 rushing yards and 100 receiving yards in that span, Williams would likely be limited to complementary duty in a scenario where he is available this weekend.

Published: Thu, Dec 14 at 2:05pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (shoulder) was listed as a non-participant in the Dolphins' estimation of Wednesday's injury report.

Analysis: Since the Dolphins are only two days removed from a Monday night win over the Patriots, head coach Adam Gase elected to give the team a day off Wednesday, hence the estimated report. In any event, Williams' listing as a non-participant is a seemingly telling sign of the limited progress he has made in his recovery from the dislocated left shoulder, which he suffered in the Dolphins' first matchup with New England in Week 12. Williams could gain clearance to play Sunday against the Bills if he's…read more

Published: Wed, Dec 13 at 12:03pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Ruled out for Week 14

Williams (shoulder) was officially ruled out for Monday night's game against the Patriots, Doug Kyed of NESN.com reports.

Analysis: Williams did not practice again this week and it remains unclear when he may be able to return. Kenyan Drake is likely to be the workhorse in the Dolphins backfield once again, coming off a 120-yard performance with a touchdown on 23 carries, by far his best output of the season.

Published: Sat, Dec 9 at 1:59pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (shoulder) didn't participate in Friday's practice.

Analysis: Williams has yet to practice in any capacity since dislocating his left shoulder in the Dolphins' Week 12 loss to the Patriots, and at this point, it's looking unlikely that he'll be available for the rematch Monday night. While Williams was sidelined for last week's win over the Broncos, Kenyan Drake took control of the lead-back role, finishing the contest with 120 yards and a touchdown on 23 carries and adding three receptions for 21 yards.

Published: Fri, Dec 8 at 1:45pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Sitting out practice Thursday

Analysis: Williams missed the Week 13 win over the Broncos while recovering from the dislocated shoulder, allowing Kenyan Drake to take hold of the starting running back role. While he'll benefit from an extra day of recovery with the Dolphins playing the Patriots on Monday night in Week 14, Williams isn't off to a good start to the week by missing the team's first practice. Drake, who erupted for 120 yards and a touchdown on 23 carries and three receptions for 21 yards last week, would make for a strong…read more

Published: Thu, Dec 7 at 9:17am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Looking shaky for Week 14

Analysis: Gase said it's an issue of pain management, hinting that Williams is still bothered by considerable pain. It's possible that subsides within the next few days, but Kenyan Drake may have earned a larger share of the workload even if Williams is able to return for Week 14. Drake rumbled for 120 yards and a touchdown on 23 carries in Sunday's 35-9 win over the Broncos, adding three catches for 21 yards on five targets while logging the vast majority of offensive snaps prior to garbage time.…read more

Published: Mon, Dec 4 at 9:33am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Won't play in Week 13

Williams (shoulder) won't play Sunday against the Broncos, Alain Poupart of the Dolphins' official site reports.

Analysis: Williams has split the backfield workload with Kenyan Drake the last four games following the trade of Jay Ajayi to the Eagles, but Drake will be the clear-cut lead runner in Week 13. Depth back Senorise Perry is still in the NFL's concussion protocol, according to Adam H. Beasley of the Miami Herald, and is thus uncertain for Sunday's contest. As a result, De'Veon Smith could end serving as the primary backup to Drake.

Published: Fri, Dec 1 at 10:49am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (shoulder) did not practice Thursday.

Analysis: Meanwhile, Senorise Perry (concussion) practiced fully Thursday, which clearly gives him a better shot at suiting up Sunday against the Broncos than Williams. If Williams ends up ruled out this weekend, Kenyan Drake would be in line to serve as the Dolphins' lead back, with Perry (if medically cleared) and De'Veon Smith providing backfield depth in Week 13.

Published: Thu, Nov 30 at 2:09pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Analysis: The Dolphins are officially listing Williams as day-to-day and have yet to rule him out for Sunday's game against the Broncos, but an absence seems inevitable after the running back dislocated his shoulder in the third quarter of Miami's Week 12 loss to New England. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, injuries similar to Williams' typically require 2-to-3 weeks to heal, so there's reason to think the tailback may miss the Dec. 11 rematch with the Patriots as well. Kenyan Drake will serve…read more

Published: Wed, Nov 29 at 9:51am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams is expected to miss 2-to-3 weeks due to a dislocated shoulder, Ian Rapoport reports.

Analysis: Williams had his shoulder pop out on a third-quarter hit Sunday at New England and was carted from the field after receiving medical attention. An MRI on Monday will determine the extent of the injury, which will in turn help the Dolphins formulate a prognosis. During Williams' absence, Kenyan Drake becomes the unquestioned lead back in Miami.

Published: Mon, Nov 27 at 3:20pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Likely out for Week 13

Williams (shoulder) is expected to miss Sunday's game against the Broncos at the very least, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: This supports a report that first surfaced after Sunday's 35-17 loss to the Patriots suggesting that Williams, who dislocated his shoulder in the contest, would require an extended absence. Williams had been splitting work with Kenyan Drake, who was left as the only healthy running back by the end of Sunday's game. The Dolphins presumably will sign one or two running backs this week, but any additions won't necessarily pose a major threat to Drake's workload. Third-string back Senorise Perry…read more

Published: Mon, Nov 27 at 6:31am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Likely headed for extended absence

Williams (shoulder) likely will miss extended time, James Walker of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Williams was removed from Sunday's 35-17 loss to the Patriots after injuring his shoulder in the third quarter. Kenyan Drake handled all the backfield work from that point forward, as No. 3 back Senorise Perry (concussion) had already left the game and been ruled out for the rest of the day. Given that Williams and Drake have been splitting work since Jay Ajayi was traded, Sunday's series of events could open up a major opportunity for Drake, a 2016 third-round pick who has mostly proven to be…read more

Published: Sun, Nov 26 at 6:29pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Exits game with shoulder injury

Williams was forced out of Sunday's game against the Patriots by a third-quarter shoulder injury.

Analysis: With Senorise Perry (concussion) also out of the game, the last man standing in the Dolphins' Week 12 backfield is Kenyan Drake.

Published: Sun, Nov 26 at 12:13pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams will draw the start at running back Sunday against the Patriots, Adam H. Beasley of the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis: The Dolphins have been splitting the snaps fairly equitably between Williams and Kenyan Drake since Jay Ajayi was traded to the Eagles on Oct. 31, so Williams' starting designation isn't likely to result in him taking on an overwhelming share of touches out of the backfield. Nonetheless, it's a justified assignment after Williams was the better producer of the two in the Week 11 loss to the Buccaneers, during which he rushed 10 times for 78 yards while hauling in his lone target for 24 yards.

Published: Sun, Nov 26 at 9:32am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams rushed 10 times for 78 yards and brought in his only target for 24 yards in Sunday's 30-20 loss to the Buccaneers.

Analysis: Williams outpaced backfield mate Kenyan Drake in rushing touches, but his final line was a bit deceptive. The 25-year-old racked up 69 of his 78 rushing yards on a single first-quarter scamper, but otherwise averaged just a yard per tote on his other nine carries. The distribution of the ground game work is likely to continue to fluctuate on a week-to-week basis, making it somewhat hard to trust Williams and Drake regardless of format.

Published: Sun, Nov 19 at 6:44pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Dolphins offensive coordinator Clyde Christensen said Thursday that the Dolphins have no intention of breaking up the backfield timeshare of Williams and Kenyan Drake, Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis: In the Dolphins' two games since trading away lead back Jay Ajayi, Drake and Williams have received the same amount of offensive snaps (62), but Drake has proven to be the far more explosive offensive option. Williams has parlayed 24 total touches (including eight receptions) into 100 yards, while Drake's 22 touches (eight receptions) have yielded 196 yards and a touchdown. Though the results to date have indicated that Drake is the superior fantasy option, it appears the Dolphins still seem to…read more

Published: Thu, Nov 16 at 3:23pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams had nine rushes for 19 yards and two receptions for 20 yards as the Dolphins lost to the Panthers 45-21 on Monday.

Analysis: Williams missed several practices during the week due to an illness, so perhaps a subpar game should have been expected here. Unfortunately for his fantasy owners, Kenyan Drake had a solid night with 82 yards rushing, including a touchdown run of 66 yards, and may be in line to take away more snaps from Williams as the season moves along.

Published: Tue, Nov 14 at 10:37am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (illness) is listed as active for Monday night's game against the Panthers.

Analysis: Williams missed practice both Thursday and Friday, but added recovery time afforded by the Dolphins' Monday night kickoff has enabled him to suit up against Carolina. In doing so, he'll continue to work in a backfield time-share with Kenyan Drake. It's an arrangement that led to Drake logging 37 out of a possible 67 snaps on offense in Miami's Week 9 loss to the Raiders, while Williams saw action on 30 snaps. In the process, Drake recorded nine carries for 69 yards, while hauling in all six of…read more

Published: Mon, Nov 13 at 4:12pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (illness) is listed as questionable for Monday's game against Carolina.

Analysis: Although he's listed as questionable, Williams was also credited with a full practice Saturday, and he's generally expected to play. He's a bit behind Kenyan Drake in the running back rotation, and the matchup against Carolina is a tough one, but Williams has some amount of pass-catching skill that's at least worth monitoring for most formats.

Published: Sat, Nov 11 at 8:44pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams is expected to play Monday night against the Panthers despite missing practice time this week due to an illness, Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis: Per the Dolphins' official site, coach Adam Gase noted Friday that Williams should be able to play Monday even if he ends up not practicing all week. It remains to be seen if Williams carries an injury designation in advance of the team's Week 10 contest, but at this stage, he remains on track to continue to working in a backfield time-share with Kenyan Drake.

Published: Fri, Nov 10 at 12:35pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Analysis: The same applies to wideout Jakeem Grant, though we suspect that both players will recover in time to be ready for Monday night's game against the Panthers. Prior to the NFL trade deadline, Williams missing practice wouldn't have attracted much attention, but since the Dolphins dealt Jay Ajayi to the Eagles prior to Week 9, his status gains a level of import now that Williams and Kenyan Drake now head the Dolphins' backfield in a time-share situation.

Published: Thu, Nov 9 at 9:24am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Head coach Adam Gase said Monday that the Dolphins will continue to use a two-man backfield of Williams and Kenyan Drake, James Walker of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Following the trade of Jay Ajayi to Philadelphia, Drake was expected to receive first- and second-down reps, while Williams would spell him and also take the field for obvious passing downs. The breakdown was mimicked Sunday against the Raiders and resulted in productive lines for both running backs. Picking up 37 of the 67 offensive snaps, Drake turned nine rushes into 69 yards and posted six catches (on six targets) for 35 yards. As for Williams, he hauled in all six passes for 47 yards and…read more

Published: Mon, Nov 6 at 12:59pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Following the Tuesday trade that sent Jay Ajayi to the Eagles, Williams and Kenyan Drake are slated to head the Dolphins' backfield Sunday against the Raiders, Omar Kelly of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports.

Analysis: Kelly suggests that Drake will likely serve as the Dolphins' lead back in base packages, while Williams seems likely to continue in his role as Miami's third-down back, and perhaps as the team's preferred goal-line option. While neither player is a high-percentage fantasy play in Week 9 thanks to the looming timeshare, with six teams on bye this week and Ajayi owners scrambling for running-back help, the duo could offer some degree of utility as plug-in options.

Published: Fri, Nov 3 at 2:32pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams is expected to take on a larger role in the Miami backfield beginning Sunday against the Raiders after Jay Ajayi was traded to Philadelphia on Tuesday morning.

Analysis: Kenyan Drake had six carries in the Week 8 loss to Baltimore, while Williams' only touch came on a reception out of the backfield. Since the start of the 2016 season, Williams has more catches (31) than Drake (12), so he may have the upper hand for passing-down work initially, but the competition for carries may be an ongoing battle between the two players in the wake of Ajayi's departure.

Published: Tue, Oct 31 at 6:43am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams caught two of three targets for 18 yards and added two yards on two carries in Sunday's 31-28 win over the Jets.

Analysis: There had been some talk that Kenyan Drake was eyeing the backup running back role, but Williams has held him off. Williams saw 22 offensive snaps on Sunday while Drake was limited to special teams. That's a feather in his cap, but few teams roll as much with a lead back than Miami so, while he's seen steady snaps, Williams has yet to reach 30 total yards in a game this week. Don't expect that to change.

Published: Tue, Oct 24 at 9:07pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams tallied 15 yards on three carries to go along with one catch for four yards in Sunday's win over the Titans.

Analysis: Williams role remains limited to giving Jay Ajayi and Kenyan Drake an occasional breather. His longest run was a nine-yard scamper early in the second quarter. He saw 10 snaps (17.0 percent) in the contest, and figures to continue seeing a light workload.

Published: Mon, Oct 9 at 5:59pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams rushed one time for one yard and had zero catches on two targets in Sunday's loss to the Saints.

Analysis: Williams saw only 11 of 52 offensive snaps and remains relegated mostly to a role on special teams. Opportunities are few and far between for the 25-year-old as starter Jay Ajayi continues to dominate the snap count at running back.

Published: Mon, Oct 2 at 5:46pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams rushed two times for five yards and made one catch for six yards in Sunday's 20-6 loss to the Jets.

Analysis: Williams played just 10 snaps to fellow reserve running back Kenyon Drake's 20, but he still out-touched Drake by a single carry. Regardless, it doesn't look like either running back is going to play a sizable role this season, barring an injury to starting tailback Jay Ajayi.

Published: Mon, Sep 25 at 12:41pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (ribs) is active for Sunday's game versus the Jets in New York, Adam H. Beasley of the Miami Heraldreports.

Analysis: Despite being tabbed as questionable in Week 3, Williams' availability wasn't really up in the air after full practices Thursday and Friday. In a backfield with a workhorse like Jay Ajayi, though, Williams won't be ultilized much, if at all, on a game-to-game basis.

Published: Sun, Sep 24 at 8:57am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

While he was listed as a full practice participant Friday, the Dolphins also list Williams (ribs) as questionable for Sunday's game against the Jets, Adam H. Beasley of the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis: The running back is, however, on track to suit up this weekend, as is starter Jay Ajayi, who is also listed as questionable after practicing fully Friday. As Ajayi's top backup, Williams is a name to know, bit given the team's inclination to feature Ajayi heavily as long as he's healthy, Williams isn't anything more than a roster stash at this stage.

Published: Fri, Sep 22 at 12:24pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (ribs) practiced fully Thursday.

Analysis: Williams is off the fantasy radar as long as Jay Ajayi is healthy enough to play. With that in mind, Ajayi has missed back-to-back practices, but the knee issue that's slowed him this week is not considered serious.

Published: Thu, Sep 21 at 1:56pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (ribs) was a non-participant at Wednesday's practice

Analysis: The injury might initially seem to explain why Williams only logged three offensive snaps in Sunday's 19-17 win over the Chargers, but he actually played 13 snaps on special teams. With Jay Ajayi (knee) operating as an every-down workhorse, there simply isn't much room for Williams or Kenyan Drake to contribute. Ajayi also missed Wednesday's practice, but there's been no suggestion his injury is serious.

Published: Wed, Sep 20 at 2:59pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams lost one yard on four carries in Thursday's preseason game against the Eagles.

Analysis: While the stat line obviously doesn't look good, Williams did mix in a bit with the first-team offense, and then got the first carry after Jay Ajayi left the game. That being said, Williams also had a couple carries in the second half, while Kenyan Drake got each of his six touches in the second quarter, gaining 21 yards on four carries and two yards on two catches. While there's been no clear winner in the battle for backup work, it's quite clear the Dolphins will keep Ajayi busy,…read more

Published: Thu, Aug 24 at 7:37pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams had four carries for 11 yards and one reception for three yards (on three targets) in Thursday's preseason loss to Baltimore.

Analysis: Jay Cutler played two drives, with Jay Ajayi handling the first and Williams the second. Kenyan Drake (concussion) was unavailable as a result of a collision at Monday's practice, but he could still push Williams for the No. 2 role if he gets healthy in the next couple weeks. Drake primarily is valued for his speed and his potential as a receiving threat, while Williams is more of a well-rounded back without any standout trait. The latter's experience and size suggest he's the better option in…read more

Published: Thu, Aug 17 at 7:54pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams will start Thursday's preseason contest against the Falcons, Adam Beasley of the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis: The Dolphins backfield is sans Jay Ajayi due to a concussion, handing Williams the initial running back reps. In three seasons, he's only managed 3.4 YPC, but his prowess as a receiver is notable, as he's racked up 65 catches (on 87 targets) for 578 yards and five touchdowns.

Published: Thu, Aug 10 at 4:01pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams rushed twice for five yards and caught three of four targets for 23 yards during the Dolphins' season finale Sunday versus the Patriots.

Analysis: Despite checking in as the No. 2 running back on the Dolphins' depth chart, Williams saw less carries than No. 3 option Kenyan Drake in each of the season's last three games. While it isn't clear if Drake is in line to take over Williams' spot, the gap between the two certainly appears to be shrinking. No matter, both players represent risky fantasy options for Sunday's postseason matchup with the Steelers.

Published: Wed, Jan 4 at 4:43pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams rushed five times for seven yards and caught two of three targets for one yard and a score during Sunday's 26-23 win over Arizona.

Analysis: The entire Miami ground game struggled Sunday and Williams was no exception. However, his role in the passing game did earn him another score through the air, Williams' third of the season. While he's now accounted for six total touchdowns on the season, his trips to the end zone are nearly impossible to predict, rendering him as more of a handcuff to Jay Ajayi owners than a standalone fantasy asset.

Published: Mon, Dec 12 at 4:03pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams gained one yard on his lone rush and caught both his targets for eight receiving yards Sunday against the Ravens.

Analysis: Williams continues to be sparingly used behind starter Jay Ajayi, so his lack of production Sunday was nothing new, and is actually what fantasy owners should've come to expect from him by this point in the campaign.

Published: Mon, Dec 5 at 2:21pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams logged only nine snaps and failed to secure his only target Sunday against the Rams.

Analysis: Williams was unable to come close towards replicating his productive Week 10 performance in which he found pay dirt twice. While the third-year running back is evidently trusted in goal-line situations, he's firmly planted behind Jay Ajayi and will only post serviceable stat lines if he gets in the end zone.

Published: Mon, Nov 21 at 5:39pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams gained two yards and scored a touchdown on two carries and secured his only target for an 18-yard score in Sunday's 31-24 win over the Chargers.

Analysis: Williams' rushing touchdown, a two-yard run early in the third quarter, was his third trip to the end zone on the ground in the last four games. That helped make up for the fact that the two carries he received were his lowest figure in that category since Week 6, as did his 18-yard scoring reception that gave the Dolphins a 21-17 lead late in third period. Williams continues to have a definitive secondary role in the Miami backfield behind Jay Ajayi, but has notably received eight red-zone…read more

Published: Sun, Nov 13 at 8:35pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams rushed five times for 29 yards and caught two of three targets for 20 yards Sunday against the Jets.

Analysis: With starter Jay Ajayi operating as a true bellcow right now, Williams was only used to provide a change of pace. However, he appears to have solidified his role as the Dolphins' No. 2 tailback with Arian Foster enjoying retirement and Kenyan Drake almost exclusively contained to special teams.

Published: Mon, Nov 7 at 6:16pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams carried four times for 16 yards and a touchdown Sunday against the Bills, but failed to bring in his only target in the passing game.

Analysis: Williams likely only received the goal-line carry that led to his touchdown because newly-established bell cow Jay Ajayi exited the game with cramps. However, with teammate Arian Foster's abrupt retirement, Williams appears in line to assume No. 2 running back duties for the Dolphins, which may lead to increased opportunities for the remainder of the season, provided he can continue to hold off rookie Kenyan Drake.

Published: Mon, Oct 24 at 5:40pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams rushed six times for 12 yards and a touchdown while adding two catches for five yards on two targets Sunday against the Steelers.

Analysis: Williams still maintained a role in the offense with Arian Foster (hamstring) back, and even managed to vulture a 1-yard touchdown. Still, his ceiling is pretty low as the No. 3 running back behind Foster and Jay Ajayi, who rushed for over 200 yards and two scores himself in this one.

Published: Sun, Oct 16 at 5:02pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (illness) was able to return to Sunday's game against the Titans, the South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports. He finished with one rush for three yards and two receptions for 67 yards.

Analysis: Williams was forced to the Dolphins' locker room to deal with an illness but later resurfaced in Sunday's game, when his 58-yard reception during the second quarter marked the longest catch of his career. However, despite that contribution, which set up a Jay Ajayi touchdown, Williams played only eight snaps, per the Palm Beach Post's Joe Schad. With Ajayi, Kenyan Drake and, when healthy, Arian Foster (hamstring) around, Williams faces a crowded path to snaps but at least made the most of his…read more

Published: Mon, Oct 10 at 10:28am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams is questionable to return to Sunday's game due to illness, Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis: Williams had recorded one carry for three yards and a chunk gain of 58 yards on his one reception before leaving the game. If he is forced to miss the rest of Sunday's contest, expect Kenyan Drake to see an increased workload with the Dolphins already short Arian Foster at running back.

Published: Sun, Oct 9 at 11:39am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams rushed twice for nine yards and caught one pass for six yards in Thursday night's loss to the Bengals.

Analysis: Williams was surprisingly deemed the Dolphins' starting running back just prior to Thursday night's kickoff, but despite that lofty designation, he only ended up playing 13 snaps, Joe Schad of the Palm Beach Post reports. That involvement level, and Williams' final yardage, mirrored his usual change-of-pace role, hardly moving the needle on his fantasy stock. Although neither Ajayi, Kenyan Drake nor Isaiah Pead were particularly productive Thursday, the Dolphins' committee approach in Arian…read more

Published: Fri, Sep 30 at 11:18am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Draws start at RB Thursday

Williams is in line to start at running back for the Dolphins in place of Arian Foster on Thursday against the Bengals.

Analysis: After logging one carry for 15 yards and catching three passes for 10 yards in Week 3, Williams appears to be in line for added opportunities Thursday, though with Kenyan Drake, Jay Ajayi and Isaiah Pead also on hand, his Week 4 workload is hard to predict, with some form of committee arrangement likely on tap.

Published: Thu, Sep 29 at 4:20pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Analysis: Williams will get the call after a Week 2 inactive status and share reserve carries with Jay Ajayi and Isaiah Pead behind designated starter Kenyan Drake against the Browns.

Published: Sun, Sep 25 at 9:39am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams is inactive for Sunday's game against the Patriots.

Analysis: With both Williams and Isaiah Pead inactive Sunday, the Dolphins will go with a Week 2 backfield comprised of Arian Foster, Jay Ajayi and Kenyan Drake.

Published: Sun, Sep 18 at 9:11am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams gained 17 yards and scored a touchdown on five carries while securing both of his targets for two yards in Thursday's 17-6 preseason victory over the Falcons.

Analysis: The reserve back actually outgained both Arian Foster and Jay Ajayi on the ground, while getting into the end zone for the second straight week. Williams should once again fill a complementary role in the backfield in 2016 if he survives final cuts, after having played in all 16 games in each of his first two Dolphins seasons. With some serviceable receiving skills, the OU product offers some third-down value in particular.

Published: Thu, Aug 25 at 9:25pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams gained 13 yards and scored a touchdown on seven carries while also gaining 10 yards on his sole catch in Friday's 27-10 preseason victory over the Giants.

Analysis: The 24-year-old's five-yard touchdown in the second quarter was the highlight of an otherwise forgettable performance. Williams gained only eight yards on his six other totes, and remains locked in a reserve running back spot battle that is expected to be waged for the duration of preseason.

Published: Fri, Aug 12 at 11:34pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (undisclosed) has been removed from the active/physically unable to perform list and can participate in practice, Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis: Williams will be able to practice with the team on Tuesday, his first time this training camp. He'll need every chance he can get as he currently is battling with Daniel Thomas and Isaiah Pead for the fourth string spot in the Dolphins' backfield.

Published: Mon, Aug 1 at 2:18pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (undisclosed) is expected to be activated from the PUP list and practice Tuesday, the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis: Williams' clearance to practice is an important development, as his roster spot is under threat going into this season. With Jay Ajayi (knee), Arian Foster and rookie Kenyan Drake leading Miami's backfield options, Williams is expected to compete with Daniel Thomas and Isaiah Pead for a depth role throughout training camp.

Published: Mon, Aug 1 at 8:16am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

McCain (undisclosed) will start training camp on the the PUP list, Omar Kelly and Chris Perkins of the Sun-Sentinel report.

Analysis: Williams could be caught in a roster crunch as he is one of six running backs in camp and the team will likely only keep four, maybe five. With Jay Ajayi, Arian Foster and Kenyan Drake all but assured of a roster spot, that leaves Williams battling with Daniel Thomas and Isiah Pead for one of the last spots. It would behoove Williams to get back on the practice field as soon as possible.

Published: Fri, Jul 29 at 3:09pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (thumb) is active for Sunday's game at Buffalo.

Analysis: Williams is available to the Dolphins today, but he does not touch the ball enough to be much of a factor to fantasy teams.

Published: Sun, Nov 8 at 8:42am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (thumb) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bills.

Analysis: After being limited earlier in the week, Williams did not practice Friday, so his status for Sunday's game is cloudy, though with Lamar Miller and Jonas Gray both available, and Jay Ajayi a candidate to be activated by the team, Williams' Week 9 status is of more import to the Dolphins' depth at RB than it is to fantasy owners.

Published: Fri, Nov 6 at 12:08pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Williams (thumb) did not practice Wednesday, Adam Beasley of the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis: Working behind starter Lamar Miller, with Jonas Gray also on hand, Williams is off the fantasy radar, especially with rookie Jay Ajayi poised to enter the Dolphins' backfield mix.

Published: Wed, Nov 4 at 12:32pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com